AGHS Legal Aid Cell

A human rights and legal aid organization operating in Pakistan since 1980. It was the first legal aid organization established in the country. The major focus of the organization has been the rights of women, children and minorities in Pakistan. It has been an objective of the organization to use legal aid and related initiatives for the promotion, protection and implementation of human rights. The experience that the organization has gained, especially in the area of women’s and children’s rights, has enabled it to influence public opinion, policy initiatives, law making and standard setting not only nationally, but also through the regional and international forums. Importantly, AGHS also runs a private women’s shelter – Dastak, which was profiled in the “Against My Will” documentary. As there are very few private women-run shelters, and the state shelters are notorious for perpetuating more violence, Dastak is an important place for women to seek aid. Address: 131 E/1 Gulberg III, Lahore, Pakistan